Improve Shocks and Driver's Seat Replacement for 2016 V.

Discussion in 'Prius v Accessories and Modifications' started by EastR, Jan 28, 2025 at 11:16 AM.

  1. EastR

    EastR Junior Member

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    It may be a big ask, but I am trying to improve drive comfort/shocks/pothole handling and an uncomfortable driver's seat for an aging dad with a bad back in my 2016 Prius V without having to get a new car since this one only has about 60K miles and wanted to consult the brain trust here.

    I've read the relevant threads and come up with the below recommendations for either coilovers or new shocks but can't tell why one is $2k and the other $440 and want to know if either of these would significantly improve pothole comfort or if anyone recommends the sway bar/stiffeners for this project.

    Coilovers: RS-R
    Tein Endura Pros: Tein EnduraPro Shocks for 12-16 Prius V Hybrid (Front & Rear Set) | eBay

    I'm currently on 205/60R-16 CONTINENTALTRUECONTACT TOUR SL tires. For the driver's seat, I have the three trim with lumbar support/adjustment but the foam padding/seat comfort is severely lacking now that it is a 10-year old car. Would you all just recommend taking it to an upholstery shop to re-fill/replace the padding all around or is there a way to install a OEM or aftermarket driver's seat that isn't prohibitively expensive. Appreciate any and all guidance on this - the new Corolla Cross Hybrid is nice but is also goes for about $32k locally.

    Last question - I went to a local shop last year but ended up with a dealer replacement of the warranty brake actuator -- the shop said the "control arm bushings are starting to wear and the stabilizer bar link is torn" and recommended a replace front lower control arms and front sway bar links and alignment for $2,151 ($1573 labor and $448 parts with $130 alignment). Is this connected to handling and could the shock replacement/improvement above be done together with the control arms? Some blurry photos from this diagnosis are attached.

    Repair 1.png Repair 2.png Repair 3.png
     
    #1 EastR, Jan 28, 2025 at 11:16 AM
  2. rjparker

    rjparker Tu Humilde Sirviente

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    First any aftermarket struts will make it ride stiffer. Some guys like this but it is the opposite of what you are looking for.

    IF the factory struts up front and the factory shocks in the rear are not leaking they are fine. If they are leaking get new oem parts for best ride.

    Tires and tire pressure make more difference. Set tires at the door sticker pressures and don't over inflate for mpg.

    When it's time for new tires get Michelin A/S or Defenders. They ride better.

    Front seat- factory lumbar is not enough, try a lumbar pillow on the upright seat back. Big difference. If he is tall recline the seat back more with the lumbar pillow.

    A Prius v will never ride like a Lexus or modern Rav4. It is made for decent mpg and for increased cargo than a hatchback.

    Front end parts with loose bushings? Find a reasonable small shop with an alignment machine. The front end sway bars etc are a standard design any shop can do in their sleep. Generally they do not seriously impact ride comfort. A clunking might be heard. 60k is too short to be serious issues. My 320,000 v has original suspension, struts and shocks. And is driven in South Texas heat greater than Florida and close to your humidity.
     
    #2 rjparker, Jan 28, 2025 at 11:27 AM
    Last edited: Jan 28, 2025 at 11:34 AM
  3. douglasjre

    douglasjre Senior Member

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    KYB brand at RockAuto.com
     
    #3 douglasjre, Jan 29, 2025 at 1:03 AM
  4. Kenny94945

    Kenny94945 Active Member

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    Well, you have bad suspension rubber.
    60K miles on OEM shocks.
    Dad, who experiences pain while driving.

    Geez, I don't know for sure.
    Guess I would start with repairing the damaged suspension rubber.
    The pot hole discomfort may be that the shocks are bottoming out from being worn out or it is the damaged suspension rubber.
    Might be cost effective to do the shocks at the same time.
    As for "Rock Auto" aftermarket, KYB etal vs OEM, I'd be swayed with OEM as you know the baseline feeling.
    The KYB etal may be too stiff.
    Yes, I would consider replacing the seat foam.
    Old age is not recommended LOL.
    Good luck.
     
    #4 Kenny94945, Jan 29, 2025 at 7:35 AM
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